Kerala faces heat wave as IMD forecasts rain to provide relief

Kerala is experiencing unusually high temperatures in early September due to a weak southwest monsoon. Temperatures have significantly exceeded seasonal norms, with Punalur recording 36.2 degrees Celsius, which is 4.3 degrees above the normal reading. Other areas such as Kottayam and Palakkad have also reported temperatures several degrees above average.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast a three-day period of rain starting Thursday, which is expected to provide relief from the heat. Showers are anticipated across all districts on September 10, 11, and 12, with more intense rainfall expected in southern and central Kerala.

Yellow alerts for isolated heavy rainfall have been issued for Alappuzha and Ernakulam on September 10, followed by Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, and Ernakulam on September 11. Residents in hilly and low-lying regions are advised to remain vigilant against potential waterlogging and localized instability.